Wednesday, 29 July 2015

A lot of posts about summer I know but I think one thing that I haven't really touched on and should is makeup. When the weather is hot outside and the AC just isn't cutting it... the last thing you want to do is put a lot of stuff on your face. Not only does it clog your pores but it also just ends up making your face feel heavy and dull.So here are some tips and products that might help:BB/CC cream instead of foundationSometimes when you use foundation, they are very heavy and offer a lot more coverage than necessary. And with the hot weather and your gorgeous tan, why would you want to hide your glow?Two of my favourite brands that I have actually tested and tried are Revlon and Bobbi Brown. Both do the job well, and depending on what coverage you are looking for and what feels good on your skin - maybe for this summer opt for a less full coverage foundation. IF you do have problem skin and you need that extra bit of coverage without feeling like you're putting too much stuff on your face - then I personally recommend Urban Decay's NAKED range of foundations. They are lightweight, a bit runny but give you enough coverage to really cover any problem areas.

Go easy on the brow linerWho doesn't love full sexy brows? But summer screams less is more, and that definitely proves true for the face. Sometimes going full blown diva on your eyebrows isn't always the best look. Try to even go for a colour lighter than your hair colour, that not only helps to cover the brows but doesn't really draw attention to them. And please avoid shaving off your brows and drawing them in with a liner, big NO NO! Now if you have naturally fuller brows I'm not saying to go out and get them all threaded out or pluck them yourself. Just be confident in the shape you naturally have and if you do have sparseness fill it in, but don't go for a harsh black liner - instead opt for a natural brown or lighter tones depending on your hair colour. Harsher brows can also add age to your face and make you look more dramatic - which we are not really going for this summer. Keep it light and natural ladies.

Avoid heavy/vibrant blushesWe've all seen faux pas when it comes to makeup and the one that I noticeably see is using a blush a bit too much or maybe picking a colour that isn't exactly flattering. Now sometimes what we fail to realize is, just because you can't see the blush colour in a selfie... doesn't mean it's not there! We tend to use a heavy hand at times to really get the "glow" or "pop of colour" on our cheeks but at times we end up just looking like a doll. So opt for a feathery brush that doesn't pick up excess colour when applying and also to remember the trick is to just be subtle with your makeup this summer (and this tip you can always use!). Now some blushes show up easily on fairer skin tones while the deeper tone ladies may need to opt for colours a bit more vibrant and I totally get that. But the problem arises when we pick wacky colours that aren't doing anything for our skin tone, and don't help in giving off any sort of glow or complimenting our skin tones. One colour that I personally love and feel like it's "a glow in a container" is the NARS blush in Taj Mahal. I cannot get over this blush and I feel like it does work with every skin tone. Of course you need to know that with this blush less definitely is more! There are plenty of blushes out there and I think drug store brands like NYX and then of course MAC and NARS (my personal favourite) always come up with amazing colours. So with blushes this summer - I would say go for rosey, mauve tones and also opt for one with an orange tinge to it to give you that summer sun-kissed look.

Ditch the heavy eyelinerNow we all love the occasional smokey eye and the sexy sultry eyes that are lined heavily but with the drier and hotter weather outside - go a bit lighter on the eyeliner - or maybe even ditch it all together, put on a bit of concealer to hide any dark circles and just a bit of mascara for more natural looking eyes. If you are an eyeliner lover then try experimenting with a pop of colour and ditch the black. I personally think brown is nice and purple, green and blue are also nice to bring out the colour of your eyes.

Bright inner eyesA trick to really open up your eyes and have the focus on them - is to take a yellow coloured corrector/concealer (a few shades lighter than your skin tone of course) and dab a little on the inner corners of the eyes. Another way to achieve this look is to take a bit of gold eyeshadow... I personally love the NARS dual intensity eyeshadows - in the colours Dior and Himalia for this. This helps make the eyes "pop" and keep the attention on them.

Tuesday, 28 July 2015

So it's hot outside, and that screams new clothes, and now you can get out all those sandals, cute wedges and heels too! But what's in style this summer and what's new to the fashion streets you ask? Well take a seat, grab some tea/coffee and take some notes ladies :)CulottesMany celebrities are already sporting this look and perhaps you've seen it. It is similar to the capri pants but with a wider leg. Done right, it can look super chic and fashionable!Here's are cute ways to dress this trend up or down, depending on the occasion.

Long tunicsSo when you think tunic... you think burrr, the cold winter. But then you would be wrong this time. These tunics are lightweight, breezy and offer a very sophisticated look when paired with right accessories and bottoms. Pair them with pants, culottes or even a cute pencil skirt and you're good to go girl! This is a new trend, something that's new and definitely one that I personally am loving.

Shirt dressesSo basically this trend has been popular for a while now, so if you're new to it, it's not really something totally new to fit the fashion scene. You can even pull this look off by using your partner's buttoned up shirt and pairing it with a cute belt and some shoes. Or go with something more chic for a more modern and put together look.

YellowSo this is pretty self explanatory... the colour yellow is hot this summer. So whether it's a cute yellow dress, a pair of yellow pants or even a cute yellow top... you're trending honey!

Black & WhiteAnother colour trend... but these two colours might actually make you feel more comfortable. This is another look that can be dressed up or down.

Japanese/Kimono style trenchLong, flowy... and perfect for a breezy summer night or just a rainy day when temperatures dip a bit low. I personally love this trend and I feel like it's something that can be worn in other seasons as well. Cute pastel colours, paired with a skirt, shorts or some nice jeans can really tie this look together.

Wrap/asymmetrical skirtsThese are pretty self explanatory, they have an edgy and sexy look to them. So if you are looking for a more daring outfit for that date night or just something sexy to wear with your friends, this trend is for you...

So whether you are body shy or love to flaunt what your momma gave you, there's always a bathing suit for every woman. But knowing how to dress your body is also important. No one wants to have a wardrobe malfunction and you also don't want things hanging out that shouldn't be. So classically there are different bathing suit styles for everyone and most importantly, less isn't always sexy!So here are some tips for bathing suits for all body types and some really nice ones below that I personally love!Small bust, slim figureIf you are blessed with this figure, then you can pretty much get away with every type of bathing suit. So feel free to experiment with vibrant colours, patterns and textures. Two piece bathing suits work well with this body type as well.

Large bust, full figureRuching is your friend if you have some extra tummy fat or feel that you want to take away from that area. Opt for a one piece and also make sure that it carries extra support in the bust area to really give you that extra support. If you do feel like you want to hide some extra flab on your thighs, then you can opt for one pieces with a short-like bottom that compliments your figure. Another great tip is to experiment with patterns, colours that keep the eyes moving and not fixated in your problem areas. Go for bathing suits that can break up a solid colour with some cool patterns. Here are my personal favourites:

Larger thighs, pear shape If you don't really have a large bust but your main concern is your thighs then high waisted bottoms are your friend. You can also choose skirt bottoms over the typical ones to also give yourself some extra coverage. If you have an athletic build and generally smaller bust area then you can get away with showing off your toned tummy. Here are some personal favourites below:

Straight, no curvesIf you basically sigh at your lack of curves, have no fear! There are so many great bathing suits out there that can definitely give you the illusion of curves. Tops that flow outward are a great way to depict a more curvy figure. Go for funky patterns and if you are brave enough, you can even bare some skin. Cut-out patterns near the waist are also cool. Here are some nice ones:

Monday, 27 July 2015

Summer seems far away whenever the snow begins to fall and you are trudging along in your snowboots and the cold air hits your face. We all remember waking up extra early to clean the snow off our cars before going to class or work. So when the summer finally does come around we try our best to relish in its warm-y goodness. But alas, as soon as August hits and dreaded September is just around the corner we begin to feel like it was another wasted summer... too short and not enough fun was had. So what to do... what to do?Here's some helpful ideas on how you can spend an amazing summer and if you already live in a place where it's practically like summer all year round... well then... lucky you... *cue the envious musical notes* So this summer if you can't experience all, at least try one new thing and I'm positive you won't regret it. And if you have any other ideas please share in the comments below :)10. Take a classNot the academic kind where you yawn and dread the hours to go before you run home. No. I'm talking about something you like, it can be athletic or maybe even artistic. For example, maybe learn a new language.. at least try to take a few classes or brush up on a language you might already know how to converse in partially. How about a painting class to relax and rewind? Or cooking with your BFF or partner? There's always fun outdoor activities and even photography. So definitely check out your local recreation centres for ideas and get involved this summer and try something new!

9. DIY projects around the house/roomWe all have those days when we randomly will browse the internet... or my personal favourite Pinterest for cool room/home ideas. And then sadly we close the tabs because we simply do not have enough time to experiment and try out those ideas. Well not anymore! Summer brings with it endless hours to get into cool projects, maybe re-do a part of the house or just your room. Change up some colours you might not like anymore or try out some cool ideas for the backyard to entertain friends at the next BBQ! Whatever it might be, it's always cool to get into new projects, especially when you have endless hours!8. Cottage/beach house trip!Whether you want to do this with a big group of friends or your family; a cottage/beach house trip is alway fun! You can bring the food, good music, bathing suits and you're good to go! Crank up the music, get the bonfire going with some marshmallows and graham crackers and you're already on your way to making some sweet memories... I remember last summer when I did this with my girlfriends and had an amazing time. We cooked together, played cards late into the night, watched sappy romantic comedies and swam in the lake every morning. Oh and of course a hot tub or jacuzzi is always a win win! I recommend grabbing a bath bomb from Lush for extra fun in the hot tub/jacuzzi :)

7. CampingAlthough I'm not really a nature girl myself I'm always up for new experiences so never give something a no go without at least trying it out once. So hey this summer this is on my list of things to experience. Maybe do some fishing, take a long hike with a loved one, catch the sunrise or sunset and learn to pitch a tent. Of course don't forget the sunscreen and mosquito repellant!

6. Volunteer in your neighbourhoodI didn't want to write this post without mentioning this because it's something that is very close to my heart. Every neighbourhood has volunteering opportunities and I think it's definitely important to get involved in any area that you are passionate about. If you do have a busy summer, then even simple things like donating used clothing and extra food for a local food drive can be enough to help someone in need. But if you do have a lot of time on your hands this summer and are looking to get involved why not volunteer? Just to give you some ideas, there are blood drives, food drives, clothing donations, big brother/big sister opportunities, helping out at retirement homes and local events where volunteers are always needed and appreciated. So this summer if you are looking to help make a difference and do something that hits you right in the feels, why not volunteer your time?5. Join a clubHey it doesn't have to be sports, it can even be a book club if you're not athletic but anything to get your mind or body in gear and interacting with others is a great way to spend the summer... and hey you might even make some lasting friends!4. Check out summer festivals, carnivals, shows and/or musical concertsSummer means great weather and with that there is always something happening no matter where you live. So why not catch a show? Hit up a concert and dance the night away with some friends or attend a carnival and pig out on snacks and ride a rollercoaster! If those don't hit your fancy, I know in my area the circus always comes to town so hey why not? Maybe even get tickets to a magic show or sports event. Whatever it may be, try something new, experience something new and you might just like the vibe!

3. Hit the beach!Get your tan on! Grab a hat, some sunscreen, a good book/magazine and a folding chair. Oh and of course a cute bathing suit or shorts. Remember to practice safety at the beach and have fun!

2. Hit the roadHey if you have a car or a friend does... why not hit the open skies? Sometimes a good bus pass and a really good trip planner is even good enough. Nowadays the greyhound bus practically goes everywhere! Plan a road trip, plan the stops that appeal to your group and have a blast. Not only will this be an experience to remember but you can take in a lot more sights and see another city or province/state while you're at it!

1. Vacay time :)Who wouldn't want to take a plane and hop off at a completely new place/country and time zone. Me me me! But alas we all can't afford it every summer and sometimes it's just not possible. But hey a girl can dream and I felt like if some of us are lucky enough this summer to travel, then you need to check out my last post where I shared my top 10 places to visit this summer.

So no matter where you live, or how old you are... there are many ways to enjoy the heat and the sunshine this summer. Even if funds are limited, experiences and memories never are. So grab a friend or just your headphones and try something new! If you can't do everything on my list, at least try one new thing and let me know how it goes. xoxo

Sunday, 26 July 2015

Heats up, the beaches are full and my AC is cranked up to the max. Yes baby summer is finally here and so is a long awaited post from yours truly. My apologies for the long, long wait. But hey the weather is great, school's out and I'm getting my tan on! What about you?I have a few posts coming up to make up for being missing in action for so long but I needed to do another travel blog because hey who doesn't love travelling in the summer? or anytime for that matter... It's been a while since I last left my beloved Canada but hey a girl can dream and today I wanted to share some of the cities on my list of places to visit.So here it is... check out these gorgeous cities and maybe you can add these places to your own list. Where do you would want to travel if you could? Let me know in the comments below!So without further ado...